Maldives

The Republic of the Maldives is a double chain of small tropical islands situated in the Indian Ocean-Arabian Sea area. It is composed of 1,200 scattered islands rich with coral reef barriers and rocky deposit. However, only 200 of its islands are inhabited. White sandy beaches line the shores and brilliantly-colored fish such as the poisonous scorpion fish dart among the coral reefs and in the brilliant blue lagoons. Tourism is by far the fastest-growing industry. Islanders own and develop most of the resorts. Local crafts such as shell necklaces and carved wooden fish are sold to...